This was my first time ever doing public speaking, and I have done my BEST to avoid it. After speaking to close friends and family I mustered the courage to do so and be a panelist. We had a fabulous setting at the Ritz Carlton in Maclean VA, one of my favorite hotels around the area. In the morning, my mother, my partner Jean Claude, my best friend Daniella, my cousin Nana and one of my dearest friends Sunny came over to my house to have breakfast and get ready for the event. It was nice to have my close support system around.

The event was hosted by Elaine Mensah, and at the beginning of the brunch, she invited all the ladies and the few gentlemen to introduce themselves. Towards the end, I was pretty much stunned. The room was filled with beautiful, intelligent, strong women. Harvard educated, Stanford, I mean I was so proud and I felt so honored to have been in the presence of these women. Yes, I have to admit it made me even more nervous to talk…but I managed to do my best. Even though these women had come to hear our experiences and knowledge in starting and running a business, the truth is I actually ended up learning more from them. Thank you all so much.

Our keynote speaker was Maimah Karmoh, and I was truly inspired by her story. Thank you so much for sharing your life with us. You are a phenomal woman. Music was provided by the beautiful and talented Azania.

All in all, I had an amazing time. This was truly an empowering event and it would not have been possible without the founders Ajara Bomah and Roselynn Lewis. I thank you ladies for believing in me and my business and for this award. I am absolutely looking forward to the next. Thanks!!

PS: By the way Wendy and I were having so much fun we actually ended up switching awards. Haha